Some power outages have already occurred across Oregon as wildfires and extreme weather raise the risk of longer disruptions.

Oregon Emergency Management reminds residents to prepare in advance.

Be prepared in advance

• Be two weeks ready. Gather food, medical supplies, batteries, pet supplies and other items needed by family members during an outage or evacuation for up to two weeks.
• For individuals with a medical condition that requires power, contact your electricity service provider in advance to register a Medical Certificate. This helps the utility meet your needs during an outage.
• Update your utility account so providers have current contact information and can send notifications. If uncertain which electric utility serves your area, visit https://www.oregon.gov/energy/energy-oregon/pages/find-your-utility.aspx.
• Keep cell phones fully charged. Consider a car charger for phones and other devices.
• Plan for livestock water needs if well pumps lose power.
• Have a plan to relocate for power needs, or consider a backup generator.

During a power outage

• Avoid downed power lines and anything near them at all costs.
• Stay clear of fire personnel and utility crews working to restore service.
• Use flashlights or battery-operated lanterns. Do not use candles or other potential fire hazards.
• Turn off lights and unplug electric appliances except for the refrigerator and freezer to help avoid a surge when service is restored. Leave one light on so you know when power returns.
• Use generators safely. Do not run a generator inside the home, garage or near a window or vent, as these spaces can trap deadly levels of carbon monoxide.
• Check on elderly neighbors or individuals with special needs who might need additional assistance.
• Call your electricity service provider to report an outage. Do not call 911.

Natural gas tips

• If required to evacuate, there is no need to shut off natural gas.
• If natural gas appliances do not operate properly once electricity is restored, call your natural gas service provider.
• If natural gas service is shut off, do not turn it on yourself. Call your provider to restore service.
• If you smell natural gas, evacuate immediately and call 911.

Stay informed and be prepared

The best preparation is to not start a fire in the first place. Visit Keep Oregon Green to learn more about preventing wildfires.

Contact your electricity provider or log in to your account and make sure all contact information is current so you can receive alerts.

Visit Oregon Alert to find your local alert system, provide current contact details and sign up for wildfire alerts.

Before traveling, visit TripCheck for road closures and conditions.

Check air quality in Oregon and visit the State of Oregon Fires Dashboard.

Be two weeks ready by preparing an emergency plan and enough supplies to sustain your household for at least two weeks after a disaster.